Vietnam’s calling – are you ready to expand your brand or join a proven business here? With its vibrant cities, eager consumers, and franchise-friendly vibe, it’s no wonder global and local brands are thriving. But franchising in Vietnam has its own playbook. At La Défense, we’ve guided countless clients through this journey, and we’re here with your step-by-step guide. Let’s get you set up for success in 2025!
Why Vietnam’s a Franchise Hotspot
Picture this: a 100-million-strong market, a young workforce, and a love for convenience – Vietnam’s perfect for franchising. From international giants to homegrown names, the scene’s exploding. Whether you’re a franchisor with a killer concept or a franchisee eyeing a turnkey business, this guide’s got you covered under Vietnam’s latest laws.
Step 1: Build a Franchise That Fits
Success starts with a solid foundation. If you’re the franchisor, your system needs:
- A unique brand: think logos or names that pop.
- A repeatable model: operations, training, supply chain.
- Local appeal: Vietnam digs affordable, fast, or trendy.
Franchisees? Look for a brand that matches your vision and Vietnam’s market – food, education, or retail are gold here. Not sure it’ll click? We at La Défense can analyze and adjust.
Step 2: Get Legal Clearance
Vietnam’s franchise game has rules, set by Decree 35/2006/ND-CP. Franchisors must register with the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) before offering deals. What’s needed?
- A rundown of your franchise: how it works, what you provide.
- Proof of your brand: trademark docs are key.
- Your legal status: company papers, legalized if foreign.
Submit online or in Hanoi: approval takes a few weeks if done right. Miss this step, and you’re grounded. We’ll handle the red tape at La Défense.
Step 3: Secure Your Brand
Your name or logo’s your franchise’s heart – protect it! Register your trademark with the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP). It’s a 20–24-month haul, but it’s your shield against copycats. Already trademarked abroad? Vietnam honors international filings via the Paris Convention. Franchisees – check your franchisor’s got this locked in. We can speed this up for you.
Step 4: Set Up Shop (Foreigners, Take Note)
Foreign franchisors need a legal presence – a company or rep office – before franchising. It’s a quick setup under the Law on Enterprises 2020 (a couple of months, tops). Locals with a business can skip ahead. Franchisees? You just need to be a person or entity ready to sign – no extra hoops. Need a Vietnam base? La Défense’s got the roadmap.
Step 5: Seal the Deal
The franchise agreement’s your glue. Vietnam law keeps it flexible but insists on clarity:
- What you’re sharing: brand, systems, support.
- Responsibilities: quality standards, reporting.
- Exit plan: how it ends or renews.
No forced Vietnamese version, but it’s wise for local courts. At La Défense, we craft contracts that stick – fair and bulletproof.
Step 6: Launch with Confidence
MOIT says go? Agreement signed? Time to roll! Franchisors – train your franchisees, share your magic. Franchisees – set up your outlet, tweak for local flair (pho beats fancy sometimes!). Both sides report yearly to MOIT – simple compliance we can manage.
What to Watch For
- Conditional Fields: Education or healthcare might need extra nods – check Decree 31/2021/ND-CP.
- Local Taste: High-end flops if it’s not affordable – test your fit.
- Disputes: Franchisee friction happens – we’ll sort it.
Vietnam’s 2025 laws (still riding the 2020 updates) keep it smooth – online portals cut the hassle.
Foreigners? You’re In!
No barriers here – foreigners can own 100% of a franchise setup in most sectors, thanks to WTO and FTAs like EVFTA. Just register your activity (franchisors) or join up (franchisees). From Seoul to Sydney, we at La Défense make it work.
Why It Pays Off
Franchising slashes risks – proven models, built-in fans. Vietnam’s growth – e-commerce, urban boom – amps the rewards. A café in HCMC or a shop in Da Nang could be your jackpot.
Pro Tips
Start Early: Trademark and MOIT prep take time – don’t rush.
Know the Crowd: Young Vietnamese love quick, cheap, cool – nail that niche.
Vet Partners: Franchisees need drive – choose wisely.
Your Guide’s Here
Franchising in Vietnam needs a registered model, a legal base, and a tight agreement – manageable with planning. At La Défense, we’re your shortcut – experts in registration, trademarks, and deals. Don’t fumble – contact us today, and we’ll pave your franchise path in Vietnam’s thriving market. Your brand’s next chapter starts now!
Read more:
- Can I Register a Trademark Without a Company in the USA?
- Can a Foreigner Register a Trademark in the US?
- Intellectual Property Litigation: La Défense Vietnam